Poll: One-Third of Americans Believe in Ghosts

DO YOU THINK GHOSTS EXIST? If so, you're not alone.

About one in three Americans told pollsters for the Associated Press and Ipsos that they believe in ghosts. Almost a quarter of respondents told the AP that they've seen a ghost or felt a ghostly presence. And nearly 20 percent believe in the existence of spells or witchcraft and nearly half believe in ESP, or extrasensory perception, the AP's Alan Fram and Trevor Tompson report.

Who's most likely to report a ghostly sighting? Say Fram and Tompson:

The most likely candidates for ghostly visits include single people, Catholics and those who never attend religious services. By 31 percent to 18 percent, more liberals than conservatives report seeing a specter.

In a town that boasts many well-known ghost stories — the White House's Web site even has a page about its supposed hauntings — this survey's results might hit home more than the casual nonbeliever might think.

Just ask a priest. In 2002, Rev. Michael J. O'Sullivan, pastor of St. Peter's Church on Capitol Hill, was matter-of-fact about his ghostly experiences: "The rectory is haunted," he told The Post.

And then there are the local paranormal investigators. During a washingtonpost.com discussion with an investigation group in 2006, several questioners told of their experiences with what they believed to be spirits at places like Mary Washington College and George Mason University.

So what do you say, D.C., on this dreary — dare we say spooky? — pre-Halloween Friday? Do you believe in ghosts? Share your thoughts — and ghost stories, if you've got 'em — in comments.

» "That's the Spirit: Belief in Ghosts High" [AP via Yahoo! News]
» "Ghosts of the White House" [whitehouse.gov]
» "Live Discussion: Ghost Hunting" [WaPo]
» "Nice to Know A House Is Haunted" [WaPo]

Posted By Greg Barber at 8:13 AM on October 26, 2007 Tagged in Capitol Hill , Free Ride , George Mason University , The District , Top Stories , Virginia

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